Gunmen on Wednesday morning invaded Government Secondary School in Iluke, located in the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The bandits struck at approximately 9:00 AM, disrupting students who were actively writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and attempting to abduct them.
Tragically, three people lost their lives during the attack, including the school’s Vice Principal, Mr. Gani Anifowose. In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the Kogi State Government expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a tragic act of terrorism and extending condolences to the victims’ families and the Iluke community.
A large-scale abduction was averted thanks to the swift intervention of military personnel and local security operatives. Reports indicated that the bandits, who were disguised in military uniforms, had already begun forcing students into the bush when security forces engaged them in a fierce gun battle. The superior firepower and courage of the security agents ensured that all students were rescued unharmed and returned safely.
During the operation, one of the attackers was neutralized, while several others managed to escape with gunshot wounds. Security agencies have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects and are intensifying efforts to bring them to justice. Commissioner Fanwo praised the military, local vigilantes, hunters, and other personnel for their patriotism and sacrifice in averting a devastating mass kidnapping.
The state government assured residents that it is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with security agencies to strengthen safety measures around the affected community.
Residents were urged to remain calm but vigilant, and to cooperate with authorities by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.
Reiterating its resolve to confront criminality, the government declared that Kogi State would not bow to terror. The statement emphasized that criminal elements attempting to undermine peace would continue to face a determined, coordinated, and uncompromising response from the government and security forces.
